Opening Day Trout Angler Survey Report Available

July 6, 2016

The NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife Bureau of Freshwater Fisheries has utilized an “On-Site Creel Survey” on the opening day of trout season since 2004 on trout stocked locations throughout the state. The survey gives anglers an opportunity to have their voices heard and provides biologists with information used to better manage the waterbodies that are being stocked with trout.

As trout anglers experienced on April 9, 2016, opening day success in 2016 was varied. The cold weather and up to 3 inches of snow in some areas had a negative effect on the number of anglers and the success rate at many waterbodies. However, some waterbodies still showed a strong angler contingent, and many waterbodies produced a much higher than average angler success rate.